Describes a study of concept mapping as a means of learning problem-solving skills. Concludes that the concept mapping subjects were significantly more successful at solving biological test questions than were the controls. Reports no significant differences between cooperative and individual mapping and mixed results for gender. (DK)

Synthesizes a conceptual framework (or linguistic-conceptual systems) for thinking about conceptual frameworks, discusses their potential for helping users develop competence in applying them to unstructured problem solving, and outlines instructional implications. The theory-practice gap arises partly from failure to conceptualize the nature of…

A discussion of what E=mc2 means and other issues associated with the equation are presented. The differences between matter, mass, and energy, a derivation of the equation, the history of the word mass and examples of how it is used, misconceptions surrounding the equation, and a discussion of uranium fission are included. (KR)

A procedure for estimating the speed and distance of plane, assuming the speed of sound and the velocity of the plane are constant, is described. (KR)

A procedure for measuring the speed of light using the assumption that the frequency of light remains unchanged as it moves from one medium to another is presented. A laser with a known wavelength and frequency in air was used as a light source. (KR)

Described is an experience in assigning mathematics problems that have been purposefully selected from professional journals to assist upper level college mathematics students in developing confidence in their ability to contribute published solutions. Several examples are included. (JJK)

Before committing to the expense of consultancy, the college administrator needs to consider several basic questions: "what is the problem?" and "what is keeping the staff from solving the problem?" Certain kinds of problems are more likely than others to benefit from consultant expertise. (MSE)

A sample of novel verbal problems which can be solved by using systems of linear equations with free variables is presented. The procedure of Gaussian elimination is used to solve the system. (KR)

Explores curriculum developers' differing opinions before they design a specific curriculum; the amount of convergence of opinion caused by curriculum deliberations; and the retention of that convergence. Finds that, despite frequent discrepancies of opinion before curriculum conferences on design issues, subsequent deliberations produced a high…

Based on the importance of "tasks" in teaching/learning, this article focuses on problem-solving tasks in a language classroom. Steps include focusing on a learning goal and topic; deciding on the problem and outcome; specifying the context of the problem; and splitting the information and assigning roles. (Contains eight references.) (LB)

Discusses research into problem-solving skills that have caused the theoretical methods of teaching and learning problem solving to evolve rapidly. Presents issues and questions that still need to be explored. (PR)

Presents a problem on counting squares that emphasizes the computation and identification of squares. (ASK)

Discusses a method that uses spreadsheets to calculate the exact distribution of the sum of two or more discrete random variables with arbitrary distributions. Demonstrates how this method can be used to investigate several problems that would be found interesting at the elementary level. (Author/ASK)

Shares different students' solutions for a problem entitled Food for Thought from Jay's Dinner, which appeared in the March-April 1998 issue of Mathematics Teaching in the Middle School. The problem involves determining the maximum area to be fenced in by 60 feet of fencing. (ASK)

Provides information for constructing two-dimensional performance graphs for students to assess their competencies and to diagnose difficulties in the important area of problem solving. (ASK)